Vintage Apache Crown Dancer Multi Stone Inlay Bolo Tie Zuni Natachu early 1970s

This is a fantastic example of a vintage (1970's) Zuni inlay bolo tie depicting an Apache Crown Dancer in motion. The artist used brown and orange shell, turquoise, coral, and mother of pearl using channel and mosaic inlay techniques to fashion the figure. The inlay is flush with the large trapezoidal sterling silver bolo slide. The sides of the slide are accented with alternating coral and turquoise pieces, along with attractive hand stamp work. 

Please look closely at all photos as this is a vintage, pre-loved piece and in very god condition...but not perfect!

The bolo slide is 3" long and 2  1/2" at its widest. The slide tapers to a width of 1  7/8".

The braided bolo leathers are 37" long including the silver tips. The leathers are 4 mm in width.

The tips are 2  1/4" long, and the disk bead is 3/8" in diameter.

As pictured, the bolo tie weighs 67 g.

The piece is signed by Zuni artists Fred and Lolita Natachu. The Natachus are known for their beautiful inlay work and their depiction of ceremonial dancers. The dancer designed here is the Ga'an or Crown Dancer (Apache) whose dances are intended to protect the community. Examples of their work are part of the permanent collection in the Museum of Northern Arizona, and are frequently on display there.

Bolo Tie trivia: The bolo tie was made the official neckwear of Arizona on April 22nd 1971 by Governor Jack Williams. New Mexico passed a non-binding measure to designate the bolo tie as the State’s official neckwear in 1987.

This piece was obtained from an estate in Chicago, IL whose family was in the Native American arts and crafts industry for over 55 years, beginning in the late 1950s.

Touch of Turquoise invites you to Wear the West!


Domestic USPS shipping with insurance is included.

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